The Voci Angeliche Choir, the official Parish Choir, was established in 1984. Fr. Carmel Refalo (the current Archpriest of Qala) had, in that year, asked Miss Grace Refalo, his cousin, to form a group with the aim of singing during Church services in Xaghra. Mgr Eucharist Sultana, who became Archpriest of Xaghra in 1973, endorsed the idea with open hands and Miss Refalo started the task.
The children chosen were mostly of a very young age and it was decided to give the group the name of ‘Voci Angeliche’. Rehearsals started in earnest, the choir was meeting often and that same year it took part in the Solemn Mass when a group of young children received the Sacrament of Holy Communion. From then onwards, the Choir never looked back; it went from strength to strength and grew up until today it numbers forty members with ages varying from 8 to 30 years.
Since its inception it has taken part in all main feasts in the Xaghra Basilica besides other occasions in other Parishes. The highlight of the year will be the Christmas Concert held at Yuletide in Xaghra Basilica, taking part with the National Orchestra of Malta and the Chorus Urbanus of Victoria. This activity is well patronised by Xaghra residents as well other music enthusiasts from all over Gozo and is a highlight of the musical calendar in Gozo.
Meantime Miss Refalo got married Vella and moved to Zebbug but this did not deter her in the least to continue grooming her baby, the Voci Angeliche Choir. She calls at Xaghra every Sunday without fail for rehearsals. For quite a few years now she has found the invaluable help of her cousin Ronald Camilleri who, besides being the Choir organist, prepares the music and conducts rehearsals. This he does with no little sacrifice as he crosses over from Malta, where he resides, every time .
In the words of Mrs Vella, the sole aim of the choir is to give praise to God through singing and to be of service to the Parish of Xaghra.